Static and dynamic neutronic analyses are being performed, as part of an integrated series of studies, on an innovative burst power UF4 Ultrahigh Temperature Vapor Core Reactor (UTVR)/Disk Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generator for space nuclear power applications. This novel reactor concept operates on a direct, closed Rankine cycle in the burst power mode (hundreds of MW4 for thousands of seconds). The fuel/working fluid is a mixture of UF4 and metal fluoride. Preliminary calculations indicate high overall system efficiencies (nearly equal 20 %), small radiator size (nearly equal 5 m2/MWe) and high specific power (nearly equal 5 kWe/kg). Neutronic analysis has revealed a number of attractive features for this novel reactor concept. These include some unique and very effective inherent negative reactivity control mechanisms such as the vapor-fuel density power coefficient of reactivity, the direct neutronic coupling among the multiple fissioning core regions (the central vapor core and the surrounding boiler columns), and the mass flow coupling feedback between the fissioning cores.


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    Title :

    Nuclear design of the burst power ultrahigh temperature UF4 vapor core reactor system


    Additional title:

    Nuklearer Entwurf des Berstleistungs-Ultrahochtemperatur-UF4-Dampf-Kern-Reaktorsystems


    Contributors:
    Kahook, S.D. (author) / Dugan, E.T. (author)


    Publication date :

    1991


    Size :

    6 Seiten, 4 Bilder, 5 Tabellen, 6 Quellen




    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English